In this topic, we will explore effective ways to navigate the internet and achieve the desired results you are looking for.
Below are some tips to get the most out of your online searches:
- Use clear and specific keywords
Be precise with your search terms. Instead of general words like ‘education’, use more specific terms like ‘distance education’ or ‘ asynchronous online learning in New Zealand’ to narrow down results. - "Use quote marks"
If you're looking for an exact phrase, enclose it in double quotation marks.
For example, "impact of covid-19 on distance education". - Excluding key words
If you want to exclude certain words from your search, use the minus sign (-) before the word.
For instance, ‘jaguar -car’ will return results about the animal, not the car. - Check for Synonyms
If your initial search doesn't yield the results you want, try synonyms or alternate words and terms that might be used in the content you're looking for.
Image and video search tip
- When are you searching for an image or a video about a topic, once you have typed your search words and clicked 'enter', you can then use the search options displayed for Image results or Video results (or even online Shopping content or News).
- You can also click on 'Tools' to filter results by size, type, or source.
Tip
Keep updated: keep an eye on search engine updates and new features to make the most of your searches.When we read information online, sometimes it is difficult to work out if it is reliable or correct information. What is written can sometimes be biased or false information, how do we recognise that?
Here are some tips below to help evaluate online information:
We can use critical thinking skills when consuming online information. Critical thinking means thinking carefully, looking at all the facts and ideas, and then making wise decisions based on what you've learned and thought about. It means you evaluate the logic, evidence, and arguments presented. If something seems too good to be true or too sensational, it might warrant scepticism and further investigation from other sources.
| Use multiple sources | Check your information by cross-referencing it with multiple reliable sources. If multiple trustworthy sources report the same information, it's more likely to be accurate. |
| Check the writer | Investigate the author's credentials and expertise. Are they knowledgeable in the subject matter? Look for articles by well-known experts or reputable journalists. |
| Publication source | Examine the website or publication where the article appears. Is it a well-established and respected source? Be cautious of information from unfamiliar or obscure websites. |
| Date of publication | Check the publication date of the article. Some information may become outdated or no longer relevant. Ensure you're reading the most current information available. |
| Ask for help | Don't hesitate to ask family members, friends, or professionals for help in verifying information. Sometimes a fresh perspective can be valuable. |
When we research online, and use quotes and information for our assessments from online sources, it is good practice (and for some programmes of learning, it is mandatory), to show your sources of information. We do this to give credit to the original authors, provide evidence for your claims, and to avoiding plagiarism.
APA (American Psychological Association) style of source citation is a widely used format for writing academic and professional documents. It provides guidelines for formatting and citing sources, ensuring clarity, consistency, and proper attribution in research papers, essays, and publications.
It's important to consult the latest edition of the APA Publication Manual or a reliable APA citation guide for specific formatting and citation rules, as these guidelines are periodically updated to reflect changes in research and publishing standards.
Here's an example of a basic citation for an online article in APA style:
(Author(s). (Publication Date). Title of the Article. Title of the Website. URL)
Smith, J., & Brown, M. (2022). How to Cite Online Sources. Example.com. https://www.example.com/how-to-cite-online-sources
Success Story: Tevita
Motivated to help troubled youth, Tevita decided to pursue a career in early childhood education with NZMA.
After securing a Level 4 Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care, Tevita was recruited to work in a role dedicated to Māori and Pacific students who have either dropped out of secondary school, or are currently unemployed.
Tevita feels truly honoured to be in his line of work.
